Writer at Large, Politics
Ernest Owens is an award-winning journalist and CEO of Ernest Media Empire, LLC. As an openly gay black journalist, he has made headlines for speaking frankly about intersectional issues in society regarding race, LGBTQ, and pop culture.
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Philly’s Keir Bradford-Grey is Running for Attorney General
She would be the first woman of color to win the office in Pennsylvania. Here’s why she thinks she’s the best person for the job.
Four Major Takeaways From the City’s $6.2 Billion Budget Deal
There were winners. There were losers. And the next mayor is set up to do some really big things.
New Committee of Seventy CEO Lauren Cristella on Her Historic Appointment and Takeaways From the Primary
We chat with her about making history, what went wrong with that independent Democratic mayoral candidate poll, and how her organization is gearing voters up for 2024.
Banning Ski Masks on SEPTA Won’t Reduce Crime
The transit agency’s recent policy banning the “Shiesty,” a type of ski mask worn largely by Black teens, is just another performative anti-crime stunt that won’t change a damn thing.
The Narrative About Philly’s Progressive Setback Is Wrong. Isaiah Thomas Is Proof.
Black progressives have been winning big in Philadelphia. It’s time for them to lead the movement.
The Four Major Takeaways From Philadelphia’s Mayoral Primary
Black candidates won big, establishment endorsements carried major weight, and tough losses for several progressives were among the highlights of a consequential election.
FBI Questioned Us About Philly Sheriff Rochelle Bilal, Staffers Say
On election’s eve, critics of the incumbent sheriff reveal the FBI asked about Bilal’s spending and management.
If Philly Had Ranked-Choice Voting, Here’s What I’d Do
With so many strong candidates, it can be hard to choose just one. Which is why Philadelphia should let voters rank the candidates. Here’s how I’d vote if we did.
On 76ers Arena, We Shouldn’t Rush “the Process”
The recent controversy surrounding the multibillion dollar proposal might be less contentious if we had a road map for how the decision will be made.
Here Are the Burning Questions Philly Mayoral Candidates Need to Answer
Throughout the mayoral campaign, the candidates have left us with more questions than answers. In the final month before the primary election, hopefully they’ll fix that.
Why Are 42 Percent of Black Voters Still Undecided on Philly’s Next Mayor?
Here’s why I believe Black voters remain cautious — and why we shouldn’t be surprised.
The Problem With Jeff Brown’s Racial Code-Switching
The candidate was recently recorded telling a white voter that his opponents would be “lynched” if people knew about their corruption.
Ya Fav Trashman Opens Up About the Collapse of His Campaign
Terrell Haigler’s experience shows how the system is stacked against working-class Philadelphians who want to run for office.
The Ultimate Voter’s Guide to the 2023 Philadelphia Mayoral Race
Our comprehensive guide to the most critical Democratic race for mayor in Philly’s history.
It’s Time for the Gloves to Finally Come Off in Philly’s Mayoral Race
The race is crowded. Everyone’s being way too collegial. The result is that nobody’s standing out. These candidates need to start making some noise.